Navigating life in Florence as a study-abroad student can be challenging enough without factoring in wardrobe worries. Prior to my Florence semester, I was used to a strange campus culture where the two predominant aesthetics were D.C. prep and lumberjack chic. Suffice it to say that my adjustment to Florence’s ‘local look’ took some time. Maybe you’re a clothes horse. Maybe you view changing out of gym clothes as a valiant effort. No matter what camp you’re in, Florence will push you to contemplate your personal aesthetic. Striving to ‘dress like a Florentine’ is an elusive mission. Though your taste may not be inherently Tuscan, avoiding certain garments can still help you stand out from the study-abroad crowd. Here are some ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’.
DON’T sport gym clothes or beach gear about town
Make the minimal effort of changing out of your Nike Tempos, yoga wear or college sweatpants when popping out in public. Save the flip-flops for the shower. Give the Greek gear a break, too: that oversized Comfort Colors T-shirt from the KA crawfish boil will clash a little too boldly with the Tuscan capital. Any T-shirts with tons of text, logos and loud graphics are a no-go.
DO aim for a tailored look
When in doubt, look first at fit and fabric. Italians tend to opt for quality over quan- tity, so you won’t spot any in ill-fitting sales bin finds. Buy the blazer that sits on your shoulders just so; shell out for that skirt that cinches in at your natural waist.
DON’T go for garish colors and patterns
In Italy, a little color goes a long way. Though you’ll often see Florentines donning trousers in splashy shades, printed bottoms paired with zany tops aren’t particularly common. As a fierce defender of prints myself, I would never advocate ditching them entirely, but if you’re looking to blend in, know that neutral hues and understated elegance are key.
DO play with silhouettes and layers
Forego those flashy colors in favor of un- usual textures and silhouettes. Learn to layer like a pro, starting with the ‘third- piece rule’: all outfits should consist of at least three pieces, not including shoes and low-key accessories. Tend toward transitional pieces and items you can easily add or remove, since you probably won’t return to your apartment or homestay much during the day.
DON’T dress like clones
Avoid the American-college-girl-in-autumn uniform: utilitarian or equestrian- inspired jacket, dark jeans in a standard cut, mid-calf or near-knee-high boots in basic black or brown, a cross-body bag or lackluster carry-all. Not so bad—just bland. Travel in packs sporting similar outfits and you’re begging locals to fall back on stereotypes.
DO add personal touches
When pulling together the foundation of an outfit, Florentines often color within the lines, sticking to simple classics and well-made basics in neutral shades. Statement accessories, thrifted finds and those handy ‘third pieces’ are what lend looks a personal twist. Italian dressing can be a lot like Italian cooking: use high-quality staples as your base and you won’t go wrong. You can then safely add some extra ‘flavor’ and experimentation—with- out ruining the whole recipe.
